Fran Unsworth has been named the new BBC’s Director of News and Current Affairs.

Unsworth, who started work with the BBC on local radio in 1980, is to replace James Harding, who announced his departure in October. In her most recent role, as director of the BBC World Service Group, Unsworth oversaw the biggest expansion of the broadcaster’s international arm since the 1940s.

Tony Hall, Director-General of the BBC, commented “The Director of News and Current Affairs is one of the most demanding of any in broadcasting. News is at the very heart of the BBC. I am delighted Fran Unsworth is taking up the role. She brings a combination of excellent news judgement, authority, management knowhow, and the trust of her colleagues both in news and across the BBC.”

Unsworth said: “I am delighted to lead BBC News and Current Affairs. We are living through a period of significant change at home and abroad. In a complex world, the BBC’s journalism matters more than ever. I am proud to lead a team of such dedicated and talented people.”

Unsworth will sit on the BBC’s Executive Committee and will oversee the BBC’s News and Current Affairs programming. She takes up the role at the start of the new year.

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